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      Right Side Position

      Introduction

      Walking your dog should be a pleasurable experience for both of you. However, leash pulling can make walks stressful and even dangerous. Teaching your dog the right side position, also known as "heel" walking, allows for a more controlled and enjoyable stroll. This article will guide you through the steps to train your dog to walk calmly and attentively by your right side.

      Common Misconceptions

      • My dog is too strong to walk on a leash: Most dogs, regardless of size or strength, can learn proper leash manners with consistent training.
      • Heeling requires a special collar or leash: A standard collar and leash are sufficient for teaching the right side position.
      • Heel means sit all the time: Heeling refers to walking attentively by your side, not constantly sitting.

      Steps to Address: 

      Teaching Phase

      1. Equip Yourself with Treats: Arm yourself with high-value treats that capture your dog's attention.
      2. Hold the Leash Short: Keep the leash short enough to prevent your dog from pulling ahead.
      3. Lure with Treats: Hold a treat near your dog's nose and walk forward. As your dog naturally moves next to your right side to follow the treat, click your clicker (or use a marker word) and reward them with the treat and praise.

      Reinforcing Phase

      1. Watch for Position: During walks, be mindful of your dog's movement. When they casually walk next to your right side for a moment, even without a lure, click and reward them immediately.
      2. Shape the Behavior: As your dog spends more time in the right side position, gradually increase the duration you wait before clicking and rewarding. This helps them understand the desired behavior is walking, not just briefly checking in.

      Proofing Phase

      1. Introduce Distractions: Practice walking with distractions like other dogs, people, or noises. Reward your dog for staying focused and maintaining the right side position despite distractions.
      2. Change Directions: Don't just walk in straight lines. Include turns, stops, and changes of pace in your walks. Reward your dog for adjusting their position accordingly and staying by your side.

      Maintenance Phase

      1. Phase Out Treats: As your dog constantly walks in the right side position, gradually decrease the frequency of treat rewards.
      2. Focus on Verbal Cues: Pair the clicker or marker word with a verbal cue like "heel" or "with me" before you start walking. Praise them enthusiastically when they follow the verbal cue and walk beside you.

      Pet Parent Coaching Tips

      • Make Training Sessions Short and Fun: Aim for 5-10 minute training sessions several times a day. This keeps your dog engaged and prevents frustration.
      • Be Patient and Consistent: Learning takes time and repetition. Celebrate small improvements and avoid getting discouraged if your dog doesn't get it right away.
      • Reward Position, Not Pulling: Only reward your dog when they're walking calmly next to you. This discourages leash pulling and reinforces the desired behavior.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • What if my dog pulls on the leash? 
        • Stop walking and stand still until the leash goes slack. Then, resume walking only when your dog is in the right side position. This teaches them pulling gets them nowhere.
      • Should I use a choke chain or prong collar? 
        • These methods can be harsh and counterproductive. Positive reinforcement training with a standard collar and leash is the most effective and humane approach.
      • How long will it take to train my dog? 
        • The timeframe varies depending on your dog's learning pace and your training consistency. Be patient and celebrate progress!